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Chapter 52
Deep within the mountains lay a secluded basin. In the center, a campfire flickered, and to one side, a mountain of travel packs had been piled high.
At the top of the pile, a banner fluttered in the wind, embroidered with six bold characters: The Great Tang Clan of Sichuan.
“Young Master, are you feeling unwell anywhere?”
A man with a stern face asked the question to boy seated beside him.
The boy—Tang Gun, the Young Master—had been staring blankly into the fire. At the man’s words, he quickly snapped back to himself and answered with vigor.
“Of course not, First Poison Division Leader. I feel perfectly fine.”
Even after enduring the long and arduous journey from Sichuan to this place, the boy still responded with spirited strength.
The First Poison Division Leader smiled as he looked at Tang Gun.
‘As expected, the Young Master possesses the spirit of a true warrior.’
Among those in the security escorting profession, there was a saying:
A one-day escort mission demands three days of rest. A three-day mission requires at least ten days, and a ten-day journey demands a full month of recovery.
This spoke to the brutal toll of sleeping outdoors.
Even seasoned and experienced escorts struggled with such demands—how much more so for a mere boy of fifteen, just coming into his scholarly years?
‘He crossed the treacherous Gyeomgak, and for over two months, he’s alternated between traveling and camping. He’s still so young and inexperienced in the world of martial arts... He must be utterly exhausted.’
From Sichuan, there were only three main paths to reach the western parts of the Central Plains:
One, through Shaanxi, toward the city once known as Hanzhong during the Three Kingdoms era.
Two, across the perilous mountain pass of Gyeomgak, famed for its narrow wooden plank paths.
Or three, by boat through the renowned Three Gorges of the Yangtze River down into the Hubei region.
Among these, Tang Gun and his Tang Clan companions had chosen to brave the Gyeomgak plank pass.
“A martial artist who wanders the rivers and lakes must never underestimate the toll of outdoor travel. Even with internal energy, pushing yourself carelessly can lead to chronic injuries. If you feel any discomfort, please say so immediately.”
Having lost his father at an early age, Tang Gun carried a burden far heavier than his years.
First Poison Division Leader’s words carried a deep and sincere concern for him, and Tang Gun was fully aware of that.
“I shall. Thank you, First Division Leader.”
Tang Gun responded firmly, though a quiet sigh escaped his lips soon after.
“But truly, it still weighs on my mind. When will I get the chance to rip that bastard Lewd Fox to shreds?”
Bastard.
A harsh word for a noble-born, especially from the mouth of the Young Master. But Division Leader said nothing.
He entirely agreed with the assessment of Lewd Fox as a bastard—and besides, members of the Tang Clan were known for their fierce tempers.
“We should’ve killed him at Gyeomgak. Now that we’ve left Sichuan, there’s no way to track him down.”
Though the Tang Clan’s influence was rapidly growing, its power was still largely confined to the Sichuan region.
Outside Sichuan, they lacked both the intelligence networks and personal connections necessary to extend their reach.
Tang Gun gave a bitter smile.
‘We may call ourselves a Great Clan, but this is the limitation of a rising martial household.’
Being naturally reserved, the Division Leader couldn’t find comforting words, so instead, another voice stepped in.
It was the deputy leader of the Poison Medic Division who had traveled with them.
“Please don’t be too hasty, Young Master. One of our main objectives in this journey is also to find a suitable place to establish a branch stronghold.”
When viewed from the broader martial world, Sichuan was isolated.
The famous Yangtze River acted as a natural fortress, forming a barrier around the region.
While the province itself was filled with fertile plains, all the western routes leading out of it were treacherous, making travel difficult.
“According to the last report, Lewd Fox was headed toward Jiangxi. In a way, that’s fortunate. There are no dominant martial sects in that region.”
“That’s a relief, yes... but isn’t that also why there are so many dark path sects there? It’d be easier for him to hide.”
Suddenly, Tang Gun gritted his teeth.
“Let me be clear—as Young Master, I swear I will not return until I have drowned that bastard in poison. He dared to steal a medicinal arousal drug meant for beasts and use it as an aphrodisiac!”
Though the drug had been developed for use on animals, it still had mild effects when consumed by humans.
Specifically, it heightened Yin energy, stirring desire.
And Lewd Fox, who habitually assaulted women by force, had stolen the drug and used it on his victims.
“At the very least, the bastard’s lust made him easier to track down during his escape. That’s some small mercy.”
“You’re right, Young Master,” said Division Leader. “Acting in haste will only hinder you. Sometimes, patience is the sharper blade.”
“Indeed,” the Poison Medic deputy added. “A rash pursuit often trails behind a calm and measured one. Please keep that in mind.”
Hearing the advice from the two experienced martial artists, Tang Gun nodded.
As someone new to the martial world, their words were as valuable as gold.
Yet his young age meant he couldn’t help but worry.
“Even after we catch Lewd Fox, there’s still the matter of where to establish our branch... Huu, where should we even begin?”
For the Tang Clan, setting up a branch outside Sichuan wasn’t optional—it was necessary.
Why?
Because within Sichuan, there was no more room for the clan to grow.
The reason was simple.
After all, Sichuan had always been the territory of Amitabha Sect and Cheongseong Sect.
“To avoid provoking the scrutiny of Amitabha and Cheongseong, establishing a branch outpost is essential. It’s no exaggeration to say that the future of the clan—its very fate—depends on this journey.”
Suddenly, Tang Gun bit down on his lip and muttered bitterly.
“If only it weren’t for the restrictions placed on us by the main clan…”
Even if Amitabha and Cheongseong, as members of the Nine Great Sects, tried to suppress them, Sichuan was vast, and the Tang Clan was the fastest-rising martial household in recent years.
In other words, if they were determined to endure the suppression and pursue expansion, they certainly could.
And yet, the reason why the Tang Clan sent its young clan heir on such a long, dangerous journey to install an external branch was simple.
If Amitabha and Cheongseong said no—
The Tang Clan had no choice but to obey.
“We really have no other option. It’s the limitation of a main house nurtured by the Nine Great Sects and the Five Supreme Clans.”
“Damn them. Never forget that you’re just a pawn of the Poison Alliance? Hah!”
The Poison Medic Division deputy laughed bitterly, while Division Leader bared his teeth in a low growl.
They weren’t wrong.
The Sichuan Tang Clan—their very origin stemmed from the support of the Nine Sects and Five Clans.
“All right, that’s enough venting. Complaining changes nothing. Only progress can rewrite the future. Let’s stop here and sleep. We’ll need the strength for tomorrow…”
Just then, a rustling noise echoed from afar.
Every martial artist present sharpened their senses and turned toward the sound.
“Uh, excuse me… we saw your firelight and came this way.”
A few figures emerged from the shadows—three or four traveling peddlers.
Confirming they weren’t enemies, Division Leader made a hand signal. All Tang Clan members simultaneously shifted their posture into one of formal decorum and discipline.
“We’re very sorry, but may we trouble you for shelter just for one night?”
The peddlers smiled in relief upon realizing the group was composed of martial artists, but that comfort was short-lived.
The moment they read the words on the banner—The Great Tang Clan of Sichuan—their expressions changed drastically.
Before Tang Gun could even grant permission, one of them stammered:
“Eek! C-Could you be nobles of the Tang Clan of Sichuan?”
“…That is correct.”
“W-We’re terribly sorry! We’ll be on our way immediately!”
Tang Gun simply nodded with a bitter smile.
He didn’t bother offering empty words like “You may stay” or “We don’t mind”.
Even if he said it, they wouldn’t stay. And even if they did, they would only spend the night trembling in fear.
“Hehe… I wonder when our clan will finally be free of this cursed reputation.”
“How many more times must we encounter people who judge us based on baseless rumors, ha!”
“This too is a challenge our main house must overcome.”
Wudang is known for the black Taiji.
Thus, most Wudang disciples exhibit a gentle and open-spirited demeanor.
Namgung is known for the Sword King and the Azure Sky.
Thus, martial artists of the Namgung Clan often radiate the arrogance of those who believe they stand above the world.
And so…
What of the Tang Clan, masters of poison and hidden weapons?
To those who’ve never met a member of the Tang Clan, the answer is simple:
Matching their sinister arts, they believe the Tang Clan is uniformly ruthless and underhanded.
“Let’s rest now. We’ll be moving early tomorrow.”
“Understood, Young Master.”
“Especially Division Leader, you’ll need ample rest since you’ll be tracking our quarry along the way.”
“I’ll be extra mindful, Young Master.”
And so, the next morning dawned.
The Tang Clan group resumed their journey without delay.
They traveled all day toward their next destination, receiving frequent reports from martial artists who broke away from the main force to track and scout the surroundings.
Moving like this with urgency, they eventually reached a small village just as the sun began to dip behind the horizon.
“Young Master, this place is called Oeryu Village, on the outskirts of Akan-hyeon. Shall we lodge here tonight rather than push on?”
“I was thinking the same. Now that we’ve reached a village, we may as well take the chance to rest and recover.”
However, entering the village inn brought yet another unpleasant encounter.
“Welcome to… ah—T-Tang Clan? Are you by chance nobles from the Tang Clan of Sichuan?”
“That’s right.”
The innkeeper, who had been all smiles at the rare sight of a large group of guests, turned pale the instant he saw the character Tang embroidered on their martial robes.
‘So even here, the Tang Clan’s bad reputation precedes us.’
Tang Gun gave a bitter smile and opened his pouch.
He had learned from experience that, at the very least, money could temporarily wash away disgrace when one was in the position of a guest.
“Please prepare rooms for everyone, along with clean water for bathing, meals, and some wine. Whatever’s left over is yours to keep, innkeeper.”
“Th-this is such a generous amount…! Thank you!”
Clutching the bundle of silver, the innkeeper hurried off.
He was still visibly nervous, but Tang Gun knew that if they acted with the proper manners and grace expected of orthodox martial artists during their stay, new, more positive rumors about the Tang Clan might begin to spread.
After being shown to their rooms by a young servant and settling in, they gathered again on the first floor to wait for their meal.
“U-um… Tang Clan warriors…”
A boyish waiter nervously approached, his knees visibly shaking.
The Division Leader spoke in place of Tang Gun.
“What is it? Don’t be afraid—we won’t harm you. Just tell us.”
“W-well… A letter has arrived from a place called Baek Clan Manor in Muju.”
Division Leader, the Poison Medic Division deputy, and Tang Gun all widened their eyes in surprise.
“Baek Clan Manor? I don’t even know where that is. How did they know we were here?”
“I’m not sure either… just that a guest came by and asked me to deliver this…”
The Division Leader accepted the letter and carefully inspected it.
“There doesn’t seem to be any poison or trap.”
Taking the letter, Tang Gun began to read its contents—and then his eyes flew open in shock.
“This can’t be!”
“What is it, Young Master?”
“Baek Clan Manor claims they’ve captured Lewd Fox alive and are holding him!”
“Are you serious!?”
“Hahaha! They say they wish to form ties with our clan through this opportunity! It’s a formal invitation!”
“This is a blessing—a stroke of incredible luck! You there, boy! How long would it take to get from here to Baek Clan Manor?”
Shouting excitedly made the poor servant tremble even harder.
Noticing this, Tang Gun handed him a piece of silver. Bolstered by the bonus income, the boy found some courage and answered.
“From this village, Oeryu Village, to Baek Clan Manor in Akan-hyeon, it’s about 6 hours.”
“6 hours! If we move quickly, two should be enough!”
“Wahaha, Young Master, why not just have a quick bite here and enjoy a full feast when we arrive at the manor?”
“Excellent idea! As it happens, they’ve said they’ll host a banquet once we arrive!”
Since leaving Sichuan, the Tang Clan members had never once been warmly received.
The hospitality contained even in the letter alone was enough to stir hope and excitement in all of them.
“Everyone, once the meal is over, we depart at once!”
“At your command!”
The Tang Clan departed Oeryu Village in high spirits.
No, they practically flew—utilizing lightness technique to travel with wind-like speed.
Even though the Poison Medic Division physicians accompanied them, they were still warriors of the Tang Clan, and not one among them was incapable of lightfoot movement. By the time the sun had just begun to set, they reached the outskirts of Akan-hyeon.
There, Tang Gun spotted a group of martial artists standing at the crest of a small hill.
“Hmm? Young Master, they seem… formidable.”
“They do.”
Six warriors stood beside a handsome man who appeared to be their leader.
‘Could they be from Baek Clan Manor?’
The Tang Clan members slowed their pace and carefully approached the strangers.
Tang Gun stepped forward as their representative and gave a martial greeting.
“Pleased to meet you. I am Tang Gun of the Tang Clan. Are you from Baek Clan Manor?”
The handsome man raised a brow in surprise.
And then—
“Ah, Tang-Hyung!”
Tang Gun stiffened slightly, trying to maintain his composure as he looked toward the voice.
‘Tang… Hyung? But we’ve never met…’
Strangely, the group approaching them had placed a child at the front.
The boy smiled brightly at Tang Gun—but the moment he turned to the handsome man, his expression hardened completely.
‘What in the world is going on?’
And so, an awkward standoff began—a three-way confrontation with no clear explanation.
*****
“Junior brother, do you really need to go out to greet them yourself?”
“Of course I do! We’re receiving esteemed guests.”
“…This isn’t just about scoring points to win our bet, is it?”
“Do I look like someone that petty?”
“…”
“Pssh. Should I show you what a real petty person looks like…?”
“No, no, that won’t be necessary. I never thought you were that kind of person, Junior brother.”
Yang-hwi gave a wry smile at Gu-Ak and glanced at the followers behind them.
‘They’re all still bound by their preconceptions.’
The Tang Clan is said to be cruel and underhanded. That’s why they use poison and hidden weapons.
Everyone here had heard those rumors, and their expressions showed just how uneasy they were.
‘But the truth is the complete opposite.’
Well, once they met the Tang Clan members themselves, that would change quickly enough.
After giving quiet instructions to avoid showing their discomfort outwardly, Yang Hwi picked up his pace.
When they reached the border of Akan-hyeon, a familiar face came into view.
Without realizing it, Yang-hwi called out,
“Tang-Hyung!”
‘To see the stiff and stoic Tang-Hyung as a boy… what a rare sight.’
With that fond thought, he stepped forward—but then his eyes drifted slightly to the side.
There, speaking with the Tang Clan, was a handsome man accompanied by six martial artists.
‘A member of the Namgung Clan…? What the hell is he doing here?’
From that moment on, things began to unfold very differently from what he had heard in his previous life.
---The End Of The Chapter---
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